Ezekiel 48:5

Ephraim will have one portion bordering the territory of Manasseh from east to west.

Study Bible

Ephraim
The name "Ephraim" is derived from the Hebrew root "פרה" (parah), meaning "to be fruitful." Ephraim was one of the sons of Joseph, and his name signifies the blessing of fruitfulness and multiplication. In the context of Ezekiel, Ephraim represents one of the tribes of Israel, symbolizing the continuation of God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being numerous. Historically, Ephraim was a dominant tribe in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, often representing the whole kingdom. This allocation of land signifies a restoration and a return to the covenantal promises.

will have one portion
The phrase "will have one portion" indicates a specific allotment of land. In the Hebrew context, land was not just a physical space but a divine inheritance. Each tribe receiving a portion signifies God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. The division of land among the tribes is a theme that echoes the original distribution in the book of Joshua, symbolizing a new beginning and a restored order under God's sovereignty.

bordering the territory of Manasseh
The word "bordering" suggests a shared boundary, indicating unity and continuity between the tribes. Manasseh, like Ephraim, was a son of Joseph, and their territories being adjacent reflects their familial connection. Historically, the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were closely linked, often working together. This geographical proximity in Ezekiel's vision underscores the theme of reconciliation and unity among God's people, a return to the ideal of brotherhood and cooperation.

from east to west
This phrase describes the extent of the territory, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the land distribution. The east-to-west orientation is significant in biblical symbolism, often representing completeness and universality. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such descriptions were used to convey the idea of a full and abundant inheritance. This directional language also reflects the orderly and purposeful nature of God's plan for His people, ensuring that each tribe receives its rightful place in the promised land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ephraim
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's younger son. Ephraim often represents the northern kingdom of Israel in biblical texts.

2. Manasseh
Another tribe of Israel, descended from Joseph's elder son. Manasseh and Ephraim were both sons of Joseph and grandsons of Jacob, and they received their inheritance in the Promised Land.

3. Territory
The land allocation for the tribes of Israel as described in Ezekiel's vision. This chapter outlines the division of land among the tribes in a future restoration.

4. East to West
This phrase indicates the orientation of the land allotment, suggesting a horizontal division across the land, which is significant in the context of the orderly distribution of the land.

5. Ezekiel's Vision
The prophet Ezekiel receives a vision of the restored land of Israel, which includes the division of the land among the tribes, symbolizing God's faithfulness and the future hope for Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Restoration
The allocation of land to Ephraim and Manasseh in Ezekiel's vision underscores God's commitment to His promises and the restoration of His people.

Order and Structure in God's Plan
The detailed division of land reflects God's orderly nature and His plans for His people, encouraging believers to trust in His divine order.

Significance of Heritage and Legacy
The mention of Ephraim and Manasseh highlights the importance of spiritual heritage and the legacy of faith passed down through generations.

Unity Among God's People
The proximity of Ephraim and Manasseh's territories symbolizes the unity and cooperation expected among God's people, despite historical divisions.

Hope for Future Fulfillment
Ezekiel's vision provides hope for a future where God's promises are fully realized, encouraging believers to live with an eternal perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to Ephraim and Manasseh in Ezekiel 48:5 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways does the orderly division of land in Ezekiel's vision encourage us to trust in God's plan for our lives today?

3. How can the historical relationship between Ephraim and Manasseh inform our understanding of unity and cooperation within the church?

4. What lessons can we learn from the legacy of Ephraim and Manasseh about the importance of spiritual heritage in our own families?

5. How does the vision of restored land in Ezekiel 48 inspire hope for the future fulfillment of God's promises in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, where Ephraim is given prominence over Manasseh, despite being the younger. This background provides context for their mention in Ezekiel 48.

Joshua 16-17
These chapters detail the original allotment of land to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, offering a historical perspective on their inheritance.

Revelation 7
The listing of the tribes in the sealing of the 144,000 includes both Ephraim and Manasseh, indicating their continued significance in eschatological contexts.